Members of the Public
Open Language Programme | Fees | How to Register | Modern Languages Module Directory | University Prospectus
Part-Time Language Study
Whilst language modules usually constitute an assessed component of a full-time degree course, members of the public have the opportunity to take language modules by registering within the Open Language Programme. The Department of Language and Linguistics offers a wide range of modules, covering seven languages (Portuguese, Italian, German, Spanish, French, Chinese and Arabic). We offer up to 6 different levels in Portuguese, Italian, German, Spanish and French, going from Initial for beginners through to Mastery Level for students specialising in a particular language, including also courses such as From the Caves to Modern Graffiti: a Visual History of the Spanish language (LA447), La Dolce Vita: A Journey Across Enduring Italian Traditions (LA647), French Cinema & Culture (LA157) and German Translation, Interpreting and Subtitling Skills (LA267). This impressive choice allows students to find modules matching their exact requirements and existing language skills. In general, there are three day-time classes for single modules and six weekly classes for intensive modules.
As a part-time language student, you could, for instance, learn how to deal with a range of different situations when travelling, use up-to-date information in another language from sources such as the internet, write a business letter, make oral presentations, discuss the latest news bulletins, take part in a filmed role-play, or read and understand a variety of written texts such as extracts from newspapers, magazines or even novels. Students are able to enjoy the various facilities offered by the university, including live satellite television broadcasts and computer programs.
Upon successful completion of your language module, you will be awarded 30 university credits for a single language module, or 60 credits for an intensive module. These credits can be counted towards one of our Modern Languages awards (for further information see Awards). If you are interested, the general office of the Department of Language and Linguistics (room 4.305, ext. 2306) will be happy to provide you with an application form. Alternatively, contact our language staff, who will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Fees for the academic year
2012/13
Single modules (30 credits) Home/EU £950*
*30% discount available for students over 60.
1. Click on the following link to download the application form:
Send the completed form to the Undergraduate Secretary, Department of Language and Linguistics, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester CO4 3SQ, who will forward it to the relevant language teacher.
2. Contact your module supervisor in order to ensure that the module you have selected is at the appropriate level. He/she will confirm that you have been accepted by signing your application form.
3. Once you have been offered a place, you will be notified by post.
4. Registration will take place on 5th October 2012.
5. Start enjoying your language learning ! Teaching starts on 8th October 2012 and details about your classes (rooms, times, module descriptions) are available from your teacher or the University web pages. If you have been unable to register on 6th October, you can still do so at the start of term by calling into the Registry, room 6.116.
For a complete listing of the available modules please go to http://courses.essex.ac.uk/la/ and for the dates of term go to http://www.essex.ac.uk/academic/docs/date/dates.shtm .
